Chet Holmgren reveals what Thunder ‘can’t lose’ vs. Grizzlies

MEMPHIS — Before Game 3 against the Memphis Grizzlies, Oklahoma City Thunder forward Chet Holmgren addressed why limiting his opponent’s fast-break opportunities is as important as anything else in Thursday’s matchup. Echoing Thunder All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s “point of emphasis” in Game 2, Holmgren knows the Grizzlies thrive off scoring buckets in a hurry.

Led by Ja Morant, one of the quicker guards in the association, the Grizzlies rely heavily on the fast break, especially with their back against the wall, trailing 0-2 in their best-of-7 series. Holmgren knows that for the Thunder to grab a commanding 3-0 lead, slowing the Grizzlies down in transition is vital.

“It’s just as important as every other aspect of the game, no matter who you’re playing — regular season, playoffs — it doesn’t matter, you have to get back on defense, play defense, and make things tough,” Holmgren said. “Can’t give up easy ones, leakouts, numbers advantage, stuff like that. We’ve done a good job of that, so far, we also understand they have good players with a lot of speed who can get up the floor. Can’t lose that as the series goes on.”

As part of the best defense in the NBA, Holmgren says the Thunder can’t let up on their combined 48-8 advantage in fast-break points throughout games 1 and 2.

“We have to lean on our identity, who we are, who we’ve been all year,” Holmgren said. “We have to lean on each other. Lean on the gameplan, lean on what we’re good at, and then, have a lot of energy, and just play our game.”